National Depression Screening Day - October 9

These tough times have made the need for emotional support vital for maintaining the health of our communities.

There are many who are suffering in silence and who are feeling that there is no where to turn. The guilt and the shame of not being able to effectively cope with day-to-day stressors leaves many feeling isolated, helpless and hopeless. We know that 2 out of every 3 people who are experiencing depression do no seek help. Shame and guilt being a part of the reason, but also not knowing how to navigate the mental system being another. Finally, there are some people that are not sure that what they are experiencing is an illness.

These tough times have made the need for emotional support vital for maintaining the health of our communities. Beverly Beuermann-King Click to tweet

Depression Screening Online

There is an anonymous on-line screening tool. If you think that you or a family member may be experiencing depression follow the link and answer the questions. If it turns out that you or they are experiencing depression, know that help is available and it may come in many forms. Counselling, psychotherapy, medication and stress management techniques have all been found to be effective in managing the symptoms of depression. Help is available.

Depression Screening On-Line – http://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/Welcome.aspx

Beverly’s Hot Tip For National Depression Screening Day:

Don’t let fear, shame or guilt prevent you from getting the help that you deserve.
Talk to your doctor if you are concerned – use the on-line screening tool to help you explain how and what you are experiencing.
Keep an open mind. Treatment for depression make take a long time and the best treatment option may take time to find and to have full impact. Just because the treatment doesn’t work right away, doesn’t mean that it won’t work at all.
Get educated. Know about the signs and symptoms. Let your workplace know that you are interested in learning more. Host a lunch ‘n’ learn. The more you know about the illness and supporting those who have depression, the less people we will have who feel isolated and helpless.

If you have some strategies to share – comment on this posting!